Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

At eight in the morning, Pinehollow's largest farmers' market was buzzing with activity, a lively scene unfolding as locals mingled, catching up and shopping for their daily needs. "Mr. Cole, here for your fish fix again?" a voice rang out amidst the commotion.

"Indeed. Got any salmon today?"

"Sure. I saved some just for you..." The middle-aged woman spoke while skillfully weighing and descaling the fish. "All done."

Norris Cole pulled out his smartphone, asking, "How much do I owe you?"

The middle-aged woman said, "Oh, don't worry about it. Just take it. On the house! My boy Ike hasn't exactly been a walk in the park for you..."

"That won't do. You're running a business here. How can I not pay?" Norris promptly made a payment of $30 in cash.

He was always generous.

Stunned by the payment, the woman protested, "Oh, how can I accept this..."

Norris replied, "I'd feel bad not paying. Anyway, I need to pick up some green onions. You take care now."

"Wait, Mr. Cole..."

his tracks. "Yes? What's

the woman fidgeted with her apron as she said, "I heard Horizon Future Middle School has slots for recommending students for the physics competition. Winning the gold medal at the international level could secure a spot at

there

asked again, "Do you think Ike

brief silence before Norris replied, "Hazel, first, you must understand the essence of these competitions.

for students who excel distinctly in one subject, showing both superior academic skills and a knack

anxious, Hazel interjected, "But Ike's grades are excellent. He's consistently ranked in the

me explain," Norris

on overall performance. It's the individual subject rankings that truly matter Moreover, the school has decided on the nominations for this year's

mind then," Hazel replied, trying to

I'll leave you to it. Take

too, come back

Norris

changed, and

"All this chatter

everything. But he's pretending he's powerless, saying the decision's already been made like he can't do anything about it. What a